LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) - U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor has announced his appointment to the Senate's Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.

Pryor said Tuesday that the appointment allows him the opportunity to ensure funding for Arkansas military installations and ensure that the state remains a key player in the nation's security strategy.

Arkansas' military connections include Little Rock Air Force Base, the Arkansas National Guard, the Pine Bluff Arsenal, the Red River Depot and Highland Industrial Park in East Camden.

Pryor's other committee assignment's include the appointment earlier this month as chairman of the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee.